Which Surface is Right for You? Surface 3 vs. Go 2 – Uncover the Best Device for Your Needs
What To Know
- The Go 2 is available in three vibrant colors (Platinum, Cobalt Blue, and Sandstone), while the Surface 3 comes in a more subdued Silver finish.
- The Surface 3 is powered by an Intel Core i3-6100U processor, while the Go 2 comes with either an Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y or Intel Core m3-8100Y processor.
- Both the Surface 3 and Go 2 have a 5-megapixel rear-facing camera and a 2-megapixel front-facing camera.
The Microsoft Surface 3 and Surface Go 2 are two popular 2-in-1 devices that offer a blend of portability, versatility, and performance. Deciding between them can be a challenge, especially if you’re not sure which one better meets your needs. This in-depth comparison will shed light on the key differences between the Surface 3 and Go 2, helping you make an informed choice.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface 3 sports a sleek magnesium alloy body, while the Go 2 features a polycarbonate exterior. Both devices are lightweight and durable, but the Surface 3 feels more premium due to its metal construction. The Go 2 is available in three vibrant colors (Platinum, Cobalt Blue, and Sandstone), while the Surface 3 comes in a more subdued Silver finish.
Display
The Surface 3 boasts a larger 10.8-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. The Go 2, on the other hand, has a smaller 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Both displays offer excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, but the Surface 3’s larger size provides a more immersive viewing experience.
Performance
The Surface 3 is powered by an Intel Core i3-6100U processor, while the Go 2 comes with either an Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y or Intel Core m3-8100Y processor. The Surface 3 offers better overall performance, especially for demanding tasks like video editing and multitasking. However, the Go 2’s Pentium Gold processor is sufficient for basic tasks like web browsing and office productivity.
Battery Life
The Surface 3 claims up to 10 hours of battery life, while the Go 2 promises up to 10.5 hours. In real-world usage, both devices can last for a full day on a single charge with moderate usage. However, the Go 2’s slightly larger battery capacity gives it a slight edge in terms of longevity.
Connectivity and Ports
The Surface 3 features a USB 3.0 port, a Mini DisplayPort, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack. The Go 2 has fewer ports, including a USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack. The Go 2’s USB-C port supports both data transfer and charging, making it more versatile.
Camera
Both the Surface 3 and Go 2 have a 5-megapixel rear-facing camera and a 2-megapixel front-facing camera. The cameras are adequate for video calls and casual photography, but they don’t offer the same level of quality as dedicated cameras.
Stylus Support
The Surface 3 and Go 2 both support the Surface Pen, which allows you to draw, write, and annotate documents with precision. The Surface Pen is included with the Surface 3, while it’s an optional accessory for the Go 2.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The Surface 3 comes with a detachable Type Cover keyboard, while the Go 2 has a built-in keyboard. The Type Cover is more comfortable to type on and offers better tactile feedback, but it adds to the overall cost of the device. The Go 2’s built-in keyboard is more compact and portable, but it may take some time to adjust to its smaller size. Both devices have responsive trackpads that support multi-touch gestures.
Which One Is Right for You?
The Surface 3 is the better choice if you prioritize performance, display size, and premium build quality. It’s ideal for students, professionals, and creative enthusiasts who need a versatile device for both work and play.
The Go 2 is a great option if you’re looking for a more affordable, portable, and lightweight device. It’s perfect for students, travelers, and casual users who don’t need the most powerful performance.
Verdict: The Ultimate Winner
Ultimately, the best choice between the Surface 3 and Go 2 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value performance, display quality, and premium materials, the Surface 3 is the clear winner. If you prioritize portability, affordability, and a built-in keyboard, the Go 2 is a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which device has a better processor?
The Surface 3 has a better processor (Intel Core i3-6100U) than the Go 2 (Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y or Intel Core m3-8100Y).
2. Which device has a larger display?
The Surface 3 has a larger display (10.8 inches) than the Go 2 (10.5 inches).
3. Which device has a longer battery life?
Both devices offer similar battery life (around 10 hours), but the Go 2 has a slightly larger battery capacity.
4. Which device has more ports?
The Surface 3 has more ports (USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort, microSD card slot, headphone jack) than the Go 2 (USB-C, microSD card slot, headphone jack).
5. Which device is more affordable?
The Go 2 is more affordable than the Surface 3, especially with its lower-tier Pentium Gold processor.
